Inquest into the death of Baby G

0y · Male·Trisomy 21 with complex cardiac anomalies complicated by pulmonary hypertension, chronic lung disease and recurrent respiratory infections

Baby G, born with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) and complex cardiac anomalies, died at Royal Darwin Hospital on 18 March 2023 aged 6 months. The coroner found that non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) should have been offered to his mother during pregnancy; detection would have enabled planning and support. Baby G's parents, isolated from community supports while managing his complex needs, struggled with alcohol use in late 2022. Territory Families intervened with child protection notifications based on unsubstantiated concerns including suspected FASD (not medically evidenced). The coroner found Territory Families failed to: investigate thoroughly before screening notifications; provide family support services; refer to Down Syndrome Association peer support; secure housing; progress AOD rehabilitation; or conduct proper safety planning. Provisional Protection was enacted with a direction that parents leave the hospital—later conceded by Territory Families as unnecessary and harmful. The coroner concluded that while death was not preventable, earlier detection of Trisomy 21 and robust family support services would have substantially improved outcomes for Baby G and his parents.